Laughing gas Nitrous Oxide is now illegal

A new law has come into effect, making it a criminal offence to possess laughing gas to use for its psychoactive effects. The government says the ban aims to curb antisocial behaviour and reduce damage to the user's health. Here's more on the story.

Nitrous Oxide, known as NOS or laughing gas, is now illegal to possess for its psychoactive effects. It is now categorised as a class C substance, with possession carrying a prison sentence of up to two years. Those supplying the drug could face an unlimited fine with up to fourteen years in prison.

The substance is used as a drug predominantly by young people and causes short term euphoria, but also carries with it potential side effects which could seriously damage a person's health. However not everyone is supportive of the ban.

The Advisory Council on The Misuse of Drugs had previously raised their concerns to the government that a ban could have unintended consequences, including deterring users from seeking professional help.